Pork with Prunes

Directions

1. 1
   Preheat oven to 350F.
2. 2
   Pat chops dry and season with salt.
3. 3
   Dredge in flour, shaking off excess.
4. 4
   Heat oil in a 3 1/2- to 4-quart wide heavy pot over moderately high heat until hot but not smoking.
5. 5
   Brown chops in batches, turning over once, about 5 minutes per batch.
6. 6
   Transfer to a plate.
7. 7
   Add shallot to pot and saute until golden, 2 to 3 minutes.
8. 8
   Add vinegar and boil, scraping up brown bits, until reduced by half.
9. 9
   Stir in water, broth, and allspice and bring to a simmer.
10. 10
    Return chops to pot with prunes.
11. 11
    Braise, covered, in middle of oven until chops are very tender, about 45 minutes.
12. 12
    Transfer to a platter using a slotted spoon.
13. 13
    Boil sauce until reduced to 1 cup, about 20 minutes.
14. 14
    Season with salt and pepper and pour over chops.